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cabal
Cabal (noun) – Meaning, Examples & Etymology
IPA:
What does cabal mean?
A secretive group or organization that works together to achieve a specific goal, often through unethical or subversive means.
"The cabal of powerful businessmen controlled the industry behind the scenes."
Detailed Meaning of Cabal
It refers to a situation where a small group of people conspire together to exert influence or control over others. A cabal may be characterized by a lack of transparency and accountability, and may operate outside of normal channels of authority or legitimacy. The term 'cabal' is often associated with negative or sinister connotations, and is often used in the context of conspiracy theories or political intrigue. However, it is important to note that not all secretive groups are cabals, and that the term is often used to describe situations where there is a perceived lack of transparency or accountability. Overall, the term 'cabal' is used to describe a secretive group or organization that works together to achieve a specific goal, often through unethical or subversive means.
Example Sentences for Cabal
1. The cabal met under the cover of darkness to plot their next move.
2. Rumors swirled about a powerful cabal pulling the city's strings.
3. His rapid rise to power was attributed to a hidden cabal's support.
4. The citizens suspected a cabal was controlling the local media.
5. Whispers of a shadowy cabal reached the ears of the investigator.
6. She infiltrated the cabal to understand their true intentions.
Origin and Etymology of Cabal
The noun 'cabal' has an interesting and somewhat obscure etymology. It is believed to have originated in the 17th century, during a time when English borrowed many words from French and Latin. Some etymologists suggest that 'cabal' might have been influenced by the Hebrew word 'Qabbalah,' referring to a mystical and secretive tradition in Jewish mysticism. However, the more widely accepted theory is that 'cabal' is derived from the French word 'cabale,' which originally meant a secret or private meeting. In English, 'cabal' came to signify a secretive group or organization that works together to achieve a specific goal, often through unethical or subversive means. Its etymology underscores the clandestine and sometimes sinister nature of such groups, reflecting their historical associations with secrecy and intrigue.
Quiz Question - Test Your Understanding
Find the correct meaning of the noun cabal:
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More Usage Examples of Cabal
1. The town's issues seemed to stem from a deep-rooted cabal.
2. Many believed a tech cabal manipulated the online narrative.
3. A cabal of bankers was said to dictate global financial trends.
4. The writer exposed the cabal's secretive operations in his novel.
5. Some argue that a cabal in the music industry decides hit songs.
6. The cabal's grip on power was tighter than anyone had realized.
7. Fear of a global cabal fuels countless conspiracy theories.
8. Members of the cabal communicated through coded messages.
9. An inner cabal within the organization was making key decisions.
10. The young politician refused to bow to the cabal's pressure.
11. Many revolutions have started in response to a ruling cabal.
12. The cabal's reach extended far beyond the public's knowledge.
13. Artists whispered about a cabal that determined exhibit selections.
14. The movie hinted at a cabal working behind the scenes of the government.
15. As the scandal unraveled, the cabal's influence became evident.
16. Scientists worried a cabal was suppressing crucial research.
17. A cabal of CEOs was rumored to meet at a secluded island annually.
18. The detective unearthed a cabal operating within the police force.
19. Power shifted when the cabal's leader was unmasked and arrested.
Synonyms and Related Words for Cabal
Related Vocabulary Practice
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✔ Add 3,700 must-know words to your vocabulary.
✔ All-in-one dictionary, thesaurus, & workbook.
✔ 147 categorized lessons, 428 practical activities, 632 pages.
✔ Suitable for students & professionals of all ages.
✔ Ideal preparation for: TOEFL, TOEIC, IELTS, SAT, ACT, GRE, GMAT